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    InvestmentsRetirement readinessPlan design

    What is your retirement language?

    As a financial professional, you’re well versed in the lingo and jargon of the industry. Terms like “fiduciary” or “pension risk transfer” may roll off your tongue with ease. You’ve also gained a full understanding of the importance of taking action ahead of retirement to ensure comfortable living. Those you advise or guide through defined contribution plans, however, may not be nearly as versed as you.

    February 28, 2024 | 3 min read

    Investments

    Keep calm and market on

    Even the most seasoned investors can sometimes seem to forget that markets move in both directions: up and down. Volatility can spark irrational, fear-driven behaviors that can cause people to pull their investments out, often at a low point, instead of waiting it out for a chance to recoup their losses.

    January 03, 2024 | 4 min read

    Investments

    How to help plan participants understand net unrealized appreciation

    Does your direct contribution qualified plan include shares in company stock? If so, you’ll want to talk with your participants about tax strategies as their eligibility for distribution approaches.

    November 29, 2023 | 3 min read

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    InvestmentsFinancial literacyRetirement readiness

    Help employees understand the pros & cons of Roth options

    The differences between a traditional 401(k) and a Roth 401(k) are considered common knowledge among financial professionals and plan sponsors. But for the average employee who participates in a defined contribution plan, it’s not always cut and dried.

    November 22, 2023 | 2 min read

    InvestmentsRetirement readinessTPA

    Cash balance plans: The right solution for the right plan sponsor

    In recent years, traditional pension plans have become less common and defined contribution plans have grown in popularity.

    To help clients maximize their retirement benefits, cash balance plans provide an alternative to traditional pension plans. Cash balance plans combine the best benefits of traditional pension plans and defined contribution plans.

    October 18, 2023 | 2 min read

    InvestmentsRetirement readinessMedicare/Social Security

    5 fast facts to avoid taking Social Security too early

    Financial professionals and plan sponsors are often well aware of the pitfalls of taking Social Security too soon. But are your plan participants?

    September 27, 2023 | 3 min read

    WellnessInvestments

    How to help widows navigate a new reality

    When a client or employee loses a spouse, they lose a lot more than a mate or partner; they may also lose a sense of themselves and their hopes for the future. If they’re not careful, they could also lose a lot of money.

    September 20, 2023 | 3 min read

    InvestmentsMarketsRetirement readinessMedicare/Social Security

    Retirement readiness: Combining sources for a sustainable income

    Diversification is a common investment strategy for many. Not only are workers encouraged to diversify within a portfolio, many will need to rely on a diverse range of income sources in retirement.

    September 13, 2023 | 4 min read

    InvestmentsRetirement readinessPlan design

    How defined benefit plans supercharge the powers of retirement benefit offerings

    High-income owners of small and mid-sized businesses often face challenges maximizing their own retirement plan contributions while also affordably covering contributions to employee retirement benefits.

    August 16, 2023 | 3 min read